i just bought cast harley wheels to replace my spokes which got loose in a hurry when i installed the s/c. my question is: can i run 16" automotive tires on my harley rims and if so what size do you recommend?
The only ones I know of that are not larger diameter are the twin tires we have in a 125 85 16 size. These are a bit smaller diameter then a 130 90 16
Jay Giese
Dauntless Motors Corporation
www.dauntlessmotors.com
866-638-1793
The answer is yes you can run automotive tires on the rear in lieu of the motorcycle tire. There has been many documented success stories of use of auto tires in all sizes. The 15" motorcycle rim is a bit more dangerous because the rim size is not exact. There have been both documented tire installation issues and success stories.
My personal recommendation would be to run a motorcycle tire only. I met with a tire engineer a few months back and he explained why generally speaking the use of a car tire is not recommended. Bottom line is that I don't think it is worth the risk. There are very strong opinions regarding the use. I choose to believe the tire engineer that had professional schooling regarding tires.
The bead width on car tires is about 5mm wider than motorcycle tires. The rim bead dimensions on car and motorcycle rims are sized accordingly. There is some variation but not much. If a wide car tire bead doesn't seat fully between the inner and outer beads of the rim there is a chance of failure during high cornering loads.
Currently running a car tire on my 1200C with Champion. Love it. The ride is softer, the grip is identical and supposedly the wear is 30 to 40K rather then 10 to 15K with a good motorcycle tire. I put 12K on my 880 Metz on the rear and it still had 2 to 3K left. Still running my front Metz with almost 17K. Looks like it is good for at least 5K more. 42 lbs in both Metz's, but run the car tire at 38 to 40. The comments you read here are all probably true, based on some experience and do differ in opinion. Why some of us think this way and others don't makes this site and this country great.
uber
ok-great info here. i have seen the pics of some of the hp sidecars. can i go ahead & replace all my m/c tires with automotive like the hp rigs? front,rear, & hack? that would look kool plus great mileage on the tires!
Just had a Dunlop 195/50-16 mounted on my GL1800/Hannigan Astro GT. Fit with no problem. Only been 100 miles or so, so far. Only things I notice are; more traction starting off around slick corners (dust/dirt on asphalt) and a little firmer ride more like the race cars I used to drive.
Planning a short 500 mile trip with passenger & new trailer this weekend.
Planning a longer 5,000+ trip in a few weeks.
Will report back after each trip. Tally-Ho!
